International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste is celebrated on September 29th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as amusing facts you ought to know about International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste.

📅 What day is International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste 2024?

In 2024, International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste is on Friday, September 29th. It is the 5th Friday in September; in 2024, it is Sunday. There are until the next observance. You also can see all the cool details and facts about September 29, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

The International Day of Food Loss and Waste is celebrated annually on September 29th. It aims to bring together individuals and businesses to focus on finding solutions to decrease global food loss and waste. The main objective is to create stronger and more efficient food systems. Given the rising number of people experiencing hunger and the significant amount of edible food wasted daily, it is crucial to prioritize efforts in reducing food losses and waste.

📜 International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste History

Approximately 14% of the food produced globally is lost between the time it is harvested and when it reaches the retail stage. Additionally, about 17% of the total global food production goes to waste, with homes accounting for 11%, food service accounting for 5%, and retail accounting for 2%. This means that over 1.2 billion metric tons of agricultural products are lost each year, resulting in a monetary loss of more than $350 million annually. If we were to save just one-fourth of the food currently lost or wasted, we could potentially feed 870 million hungry people and also help combat climate change, as food loss and waste contribute to approximately 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, leading to ozone depletion and climate change.

The impact of food loss and waste goes beyond environmental concerns. It also affects the sustainability of our food systems because when food is lost or discarded, all the resources used to produce it, such as water, land, energy, labor, and capital, are wasted. Moreover, it has a negative impact on food security and availability, leading to increased food prices. Recognizing the significance of these issues, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) was established in 1945 to address global hunger. They have taken several steps towards this goal, including the establishment of the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste on September 29, which was collectively agreed upon in December 2019.

✅ International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste Facts

🔖 Properly store food
If food is not stored correctly, it can spoil. It is recommended to not refrigerate certain items such as potatoes, garlic, cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions to keep them fresh.

🔖 Learn to preserve
Selecting the most suitable method of food preservation is essential in minimizing waste, as there is no universal approach that works for all types of food.

🔖 Shop smart
Buying items in large quantities might seem convenient, but it can lead to unnecessary food waste.

👍 Why Is International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste Important

It raises awareness of one of the world’s biggest issues at the moment. The entire world has to be aware of the issue so that we can work together to fix it.

World hunger can be decreased if we all work together to reduce food loss and waste, which not only reduces waste but also decreases food prices. Always keep in mind that someone, somewhere, is going hungry today when consuming or setting aside food.

Reducing food waste also helps to reduce climate change by reducing the amount of greenhouse gas emitted into the environment due to food spoilage. This has a positive impact on global health.

🙂 How To Observe International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste

⚡ Join A Campaign
Take part in a global initiative aiming to reduce food loss and waste. No matter how much time you contribute, it will be valuable.

⚡ Spread awareness
Raising awareness about the International Day of Food Loss and Waste is crucial in drawing attention to one of the most significant global problems we face.

⚡ Don’t Waste Food
Utilize these online resources to assist you in determining alternative uses for unwanted food items. Dedicate some time to familiarize yourself with various techniques for food preservation.

📅 When is International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste?

Discover all 🔗 September holidays, including 🔗 Cause and other 🔗 Awareness holidays.

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